European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

GLOBAL CHALLENGES DUE TO VIRAL MUTATION

Rajlaxmi Shukla and Dinesh Kumar Jain*

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Viral mutations play a critical role in altering the transmission, virulence, and immune evasion capabilities of pathogens. RNA viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, HIV, Ebola, and dengue, mutate frequently, impacting global health strategies, vaccine effectiveness, and treatment protocols. Understanding these mutations is essential for developing effective countermeasures to mitigate their public health impact. Objectives: This study aims to examine the impact of viral mutations on disease progression, vaccine efficacy, and treatment strategies. It also evaluates the role of genomic surveillance and emerging therapeutic interventions in controlling mutation-driven challenges. Methods: A systematic review of scientific literature, genomic databases, and public health reports was conducted to analyse mutation patterns in major RNA viruses. The study evaluates mutation-driven changes in viral behaviour and their implications for vaccines, diagnostics, and antiviral therapies. Results: The analysis reveals that mutations in key viral proteins influence transmissibility, immune escape, and drug resistance. Variants of concern in SARS-CoV-2 have led to fluctuating vaccine effectiveness, while antigenic drift in influenza necessitates frequent vaccine updates. HIV mutations contribute to antiretroviral resistance, and mutations in Ebola and dengue viruses impact vaccine responses. Continuous genomic surveillance and adaptive countermeasures are essential in addressing these evolving threats. Conclusions: Viral mutations pose significant challenges to public health, requiring robust surveillance, rapid vaccine adaptation, and innovative therapeutic approaches. Strengthening international collaboration and research efforts is crucial for effective pandemic preparedness and response.

Keywords: Viral mutations, Global health, Vaccine development, Surveillance systems, Diagnostic challenges.